Is it in good condition? Check for damage and any loose tiles and make sure your TV aerial is well secured. If it’s a flat roof, pay special attention as they can hold sitting water and tend not to last as long as pitched roofs.
Help prevent damage to your home in a storm
Tips to get your home ready for a storm and what to do if you’re affected by high winds.
How to brace yourself for gales and strong winds
Are fences safe?
Checking each panel to make sure it’s well fixed in place will help you keep your fences intact during high winds.
Try keeping your car covered
Your car will be safest inside a garage away from potential hazards caused by strong gusts of wind.
Secure your doors and windows
Keep doors and windows closed and locked, and don’t forget the garage.
Have your roof examined
Is it in good condition? Check for damage and any loose tiles and make sure your TV aerial is well secured. If it’s a flat roof, pay special attention as they can hold sitting water and tend not to last as long as pitched roofs.
Inspect nearby trees
Trim branches that could damage your home by crashing down in gusty weather. Any loose, overhanging or dead branches should also be removed. Consider using a tree surgeon if it’s not a simple job to keep your own trees well pruned on a regular basis.
Secure all garden furniture
Make sure there’s nothing loose, including trampolines, etc. that could be blown around and damage something. Safely store away equipment like ladders and bins.
Get buildings insurance
Even with the best laid plans, you can’t guarantee something won’t get damaged in a storm. When was the last time you checked your buildings cover to make sure it’s up to date and still protects the things you want it to?
My home’s been affected by high winds, what should I do??
Once the weather’s settled down, here’s what to do if you think your home may have been damaged by a storm.
Remove blockages and repair any damage to make sure water is running off as expected. Get professional help for any risky jobs.
Make sure the storm hasn’t created hazards, such as loose branches.
Recording any damage will help if you need to make a claim on your home insurance.
By a qualified engineer before using it after a flood or other damage.